Clinical and radiological outcome of all-suture anchors in shoulder and elbow surgery.

Background: All-suture anchors (ASAs) are noted to cause various bone reactions when used in upper limb surgery but clinical implications are unknown. Methods: 88 shoulders and 151 elbows with a mean follow-up of 47.1 ± 17.7 months were invited for follow-up including clinical examination, questionnaires and radiographs. The anchor drill holes were radiographically assessed. Results: At final follow up, mean DASH was 12.9 ± 13.8 and mean VAS 2.2 ± 2.4 in the shoulder population. In the elbow group mean MEPS was 91.8 ± 12.7 and mean VAS 1.5 ± 1.9. Implant-specific complications were seen in 10 elbow cases but none in the shoulder group. The mean diameter of the 1.4 mm all-suture anchor drill hole was enlarged to 2.5 ± 1.4 mm in the shoulder group and to 2.9 ± 1.0 mm in the elbow group. 50% of the 1.4 mm anchor drill holes showed abnormal morphology but these morphologic changes did not correlate with clinical outcome, complications or reoperation rate. Discussion: Satisfying clinical outcomes are found in upper limb surgery using ASAs. Various bone changes are seen after implantation of an ASA, but these are not clinically relevant. Long-term consecutive follow-up data is required.

Arthroscopic lateral collateral ligament imbrication of the elbow: short-term clinical results.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) of the elbow results from an insufficient lateral collateral ligament (LCL) complex. Arthroscopic LCL imbrication may prove a minimally invasive alternative to open lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) reconstruction with a quicker rehabilitation. The purpose of this study is to analyze the validity of a modified arthroscopic imbrication technique. We hypothesized that arthroscopic LUCL imbrication would yield stable elbows in patients with grade 1 or 2 chronic PLRI at a minimum of 2 year of follow-up. METHODS: We retrospectively assessed data of all PLRI patients who underwent arthroscopic LUCL imbrication from 2010 to 2013 (n = 20). Stage 3 PLRIs (frank ulnohumeral dislocations) were excluded from this treatment. After confirmation of PLRI during standard elbow arthroscopy, a doubled absorbable suture is shuttled through as much LCL tissue as possible (from the lateral ulnar border to the area proximal to the lateral epicondyle) and the sutures are tied. This results in a plication of the entire LCL complex. Objective elbow stability was assessed using a combination of the pivot shift, table top, and posterior drawer tests. RESULT: Of 20 included patients, 18 were stable subjectively and objectively at a minimum of 2 year of follow-up. Mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved from 48 preoperatively to 88.9 at final follow-up (P < .001). Mean Quick-Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score improved from 53 preoperatively to 10.3 at final follow-up (P < .001). One patient developed elbow stiffness. Two patients reported tenderness of the subcutaneous PDS knots. CONCLUSION: As a less invasive alternative to open LCL reconstruction using a graft, arthroscopic LCL imbrication has demonstrated acceptable rates of perceived elbow stability among patients with stage 1 or 2 PLRI.

Evaluation of MRI Signal Changes of the Distal Biceps Tendon in Asymptomatic Patients.

PURPOSE: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used widely for complete ruptures of the distal biceps tendon. The validity of this investigation for bicipital bursitis and tendinosis is unknown. The purpose of present study was to assess the prevalence of incidental (asymptomatic) signal changes in the distal biceps tendon in patients who underwent MRI including the elbow. Our null hypothesis was that signal changes of the distal biceps tendon do not occur in asymptomatic patients. This would empower MRI as a diagnostic tool for bicipital bursitis and tendinosis as well as complete and partial distal biceps tendon ruptures. METHODS: We evaluated 1,191 elbow MRI scans including the distal biceps tendon insertion. The prevalence of incidental findings was calculated and sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, false positive probability, and false negative probability were calculated. RESULTS: Signal changes of the distal biceps tendon or bursitis were identified in 8 of 1,191 asymptomatic patients (prevalence 0.6%). The sensitivity of MRI for distal biceps pathology was 97% (95% confidence interval [CI], 93%-99%), specificity 99% (95% CI, 98%-99%), positive predictive value 94% (95% CI, 89%-97%), negative predictive value 99% (95% CI, 99%-99%), false positive probability 6% (95% CI, 3%-10%), and false negative probability 0.3% (95% CI, 0.1%-0.9%). There was no correlation between explanatory variables, including age, sex, race, occupation, and inflammatory disease and incidental distal biceps tendon signal changes. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of distal biceps tendon signal changes on MRI in asymptomatic patients is very low. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The negative predictive value of 99% shows that patients without signal changes on MRI may be assumed to have no distal biceps tendon pathology. MRI investigation of distal biceps tendon is a valuable tool in the diagnosis of tendinosis and bicipital bursitis.

Evaluation of clinical tests for partial distal biceps tendon ruptures and tendinitis.

BACKGROUND: The clinical diagnosis of partial distal biceps tendon ruptures or tendinosis can be challenging. Three clinical tests have been described to aid in an accurate and timely diagnosis: biceps provocation test, tilt sign, and resisted hook test. However, not much is known about the sensitivity, specificity, and inter-rater reliability as the available evaluations are based on small groups or are case based. Furthermore, these tests have not been compared together in the same patient group. METHODS: Two dedicated elbow surgeons each included 20 consecutive patients in whom distal biceps tendon pathology was suspected. Patients with a complete distal biceps tendon tear were excluded. As a control, the same number of consecutive patients with various elbow pathologies other than distal biceps tendon problems was included. All 3 tests were performed both in control patients and in patients with suspected biceps tendon pathology. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the flexion-abduction-supination view and/or surgical exploration was performed in both groups. The findings of the clinical tests were determined before the results of MRI and other technical investigations were analyzed. The values of sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were calculated. RESULTS: The combined sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy values for the biceps provocation test were 95%, 97%, and 96%, respectively. For the resisted hook test, the combined values were 78%, 76%, and 77%, respectively. The combined values for the tilt sign were 58%, 55%, and 56%, respectively. When the biceps provocation test and the resisted hook test were combined in a parallel testing setup, the sensitivity increased to 98% whereas the specificity was 73%. The sensitivity and specificity of the biceps provocation test and the tilt sign in a parallel testing setup were 97% and 53%, respectively. Finally, the sensitivity and specificity of the tilt sign and the resisted hook test in a parallel testing setup were 90% and 41%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The biceps provocation test yielded higher accuracy than the resisted hook test and the tilt sign. When the biceps provocation test and the resisted hook test were combined, the sensitivity increased to 98%. We advise integration of these tests in daily practice to minimize delays in the diagnosis of partial distal biceps tendon ruptures, distal biceps tendon bursitis, or tendinosis. MRI in the flexion-abduction-supination view is still advised to distinguish between a partial biceps tendon rupture and tendinosis or bursitis at the distal biceps tendon insertion as this may influence further treatment.

Postoperative rehabilitation in elbow surgery.

Postoperative rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the treatment of elbow pathology. Depending on the type of surgery, the elbow may need to be protected. As a general rule, the elbow should not be immobilized for a prolonged period after surgery. A removable splint can be used to protect the soft-tissues immediately postoperative and the patient is encouraged to remove the splint several times daily to mobilize the elbow. Dynamic articulated braces can be used to encourage movement while ligament or tendon repairs are being protected. Literature on postoperative elbow rehab is scarce. In this paper we provide practical guidelines for specific surgical procedures.

In vivo evaluation of a new intramedullary distal biceps tendon fixation device.

BACKGROUND: Intramedullary fixation in distal biceps tendon repair may be a solution to address specific shortcomings of current fixation techniques. Most investigations are limited to biomechanical evaluation. The purpose of this study was to report the short-term outcomes of an intramedullary fixation device. METHODS: We evaluated functional and radiographic outcomes at up to 6 months of follow-up. Patients with an acute distal biceps tendon rupture eligible for surgical repair were invited to take part in the study. Ten patients were included in the final analysis. All patients were evaluated both clinically and radiographically at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. Outcomes were recorded using a visual analog scale score for pain, the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score. Radiographic evaluation comprised radiographic and computed tomography evaluation. RESULTS: There were no failures of fixation in the patient group examined. Elbow mobility was symmetrical for all patients from 3 months onward. Supination strength was 86% of the uninjured side at final follow-up. The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score and Mayo Elbow Performance Score at final follow-up were 0 and 100, respectively. Computed tomography images showed no signs of button migration, cortical thinning due to button pressure, or button breakout. The tendon could be followed to the button in all cases. CONCLUSIONS: The intramedullary fixation button technique to repair the distal biceps tendon has excellent functional outcomes at 6 months. No adverse reactions of the button on the bone were seen. As this technique minimizes the risk of posterior interosseous nerve injury and has a sufficient bone tunnel to avoid gap formation, this may be a promising new technique for distal biceps tendon rupture refixation.

Distal Biceps Provocation Test.

PURPOSE: To describe and study a test for distal biceps tendon pathology other than complete tears. METHODS: In this prospective study, the biceps provocation test (BPT) was performed in a cohort of 30 patients with suspected distal biceps tendon pathology and 30 patients with another elbow pathology. Patients with a complete tear were excluded. Diagnosis was confirmed on magnetic resonance imaging or from surgical findings. The BPT is a 2-part test. The elbow is flexed to 70° with the forearm supinated. The examiner's hands are placed on the patient's forearm and the patient is asked to flex the elbow against resistance (BPTs). The forearm is then pronated and the test is repeated (BPTp). Pain is documented for both supination and pronation using a visual analog scale from 0 to 10. The test is positive when the patient indicates an increase in pain with BPTp compared with BPTs. RESULTS: The BPT was positive in all patients with distal biceps tendon pathology. The average visual analog scale score in this group was 1 (range, 0-7) for the supinated part of the test (BPTs) and 7 (range, 4-10) with the forearm in pronation (BPTp), with an average increase of 5 points (range, 2-8). This difference was significant. No significant difference was found in the control group. Among the controls, BPTp and BPTs were rated as equally painful by 27 patients, and BPTp was less painful than BPTs in 3. Sensitivity and specificity were both 100% in this small group of 60 patients, with a high prevalence of distal biceps tendon pathology. CONCLUSIONS: The BPT appears to be highly sensitive and specific for distal biceps partial injury or tendinitis. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Diagnostic II.

Is the flexion-abduction-supination magnetic resonance imaging view more accurate than standard magnetic resonance imaging in detecting distal biceps pathology?

BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS: Partial biceps tendon pathology is difficult to diagnose. The flexion-abduction-supination (FABS) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) view has been advocated to improve the accuracy of MRI investigation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the FABS view MRI in the diagnosis of distal biceps tendon pathology. METHODS: The study included 50 patients with surgically confirmed distal biceps tendon pathology and 50 patients with other elbow disorders. In both groups, standard elbow MRI (retrospective review of previously obtained MRI data) was performed in half of the patients whereas FABS views MRI were obtained in the other half. These were evaluated by 2 independent musculoskeletal radiologists. The sensitivity and specificity of both MRI views were determined. Tendinosis and grade of rupture were reported from MRI and then compared with surgical findings. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in sensitivity and specificity in detecting partial distal biceps injuries when the FABS view MRI (sensitivity, 84%; specificity, 86%) and standard MRI (sensitivity, 76%; specificity, 98%) were compared. The interobserver reliability was 92% for the FABS view MRI with biceps pathology and 68% for standard MRI. In the control group, the interobserver reliability was 88% for the FABS view MRI and 96% for standard MRI. FABS MRI was significantly better regarding grade of injury. CONCLUSIONS: No significant differences in sensitivity and specificity were found between the FABS view and standard elbow MRI in the diagnosis of partial distal biceps tendon injuries, with high sensitivity and specificity for both views. Inter-rater reliability was better for FABS views, and FABS views were significantly more accurate than surgical findings in grading the extent of pathology.

A new intramedullary fixation method for distal biceps tendon ruptures: a biomechanical study.

BACKGROUND: Various techniques have been described for distal biceps tendon reinsertion. Although high success rates have been reported, all current techniques have specific shortcomings, with complications such as heterotopic ossification, nerve damage, and gap formation. The purpose of the present study was to biomechanically evaluate a new intramedullary fixation device that might reduce the risk of posterior interosseous nerve lesions. We therefore compared the fixation strength of this new intramedullary button with an extramedullary placed classic extracortical button. METHODS: A standard bicortical button was compared to the new intramedullary fixation device using fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens. The fixation strengths were tested both cyclically and statically. Load to failure and method of failure were also recorded. RESULTS: There were no failures during the cyclic load testing. The mean tendon-bone displacement was 0.87 ± 0.13 mm for the bicortical group and 0.83 ± 0.13 mm for the new button. During static loading, the mean load to failure for the bicortical group was 296 ± 97 N, whereas the new button group showed a higher mean load to failure of 356 ± 37 N. Breakout through the anterior cortex was recorded in 2 of 6 bicortically placed buttons and 1 of 6 in the new device. CONCLUSIONS: The new intramedullary fixation device yields comparable loads to failure compared with currently used techniques in a biomechanical setup. These findings together with the theoretical advantages suggest that this technique may be a valuable solution for the repair of distal biceps tendon rupture.

Use of three-dimensional technology for complications of upper limb fracture treatment.

In malunion cases, restoration of anatomy is a key factor in obtaining a good functional outcome, but this can be technically very challenging.Three-dimensional printed bone models can further improve understanding of the malunion pattern.The use of three-dimensional (3D) computer planning, and the assembly of patient-specific instruments and implants, especially in complex deformities of the upper limb, allow accurate correction while reducing operation time, blood loss volume and radiation exposure during surgery.One of the major disadvantages of the 3D technique is the additional cost because it requires specific computer software, a dedicated clinical engineer, and a 3D printer.Further technical developments and clinical investigations are necessary to better define the added value and cost/benefit relationship of 3D in the treatment of complex fractures, non-unions, and malunions. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4 DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180074.

Joint contact areas after radial head arthroplasty: a comparative study of 3 prostheses.

BACKGROUND: Contact stresses of radial head prostheses remain a concern, potentially leading to early capitellar cartilage wear and erosion. In particular, point contact or edge loading could have a detrimental effect. The purpose of this study was to compare 3 different types of radial head prostheses in terms of joint contact areas with each other and with the native situation. The hypothesis was that the joint contact areas would be lower after monopolar arthroplasty. METHODS: Seven fresh-frozen cadaveric upper limbs were used. Radiocapitellar contact areas of a monopolar design, a straight-neck bipolar design, and an angled-neck bipolar design were compared with each other and with the native joint. After standardized preparation, polysiloxane was injected into the loaded radiocapitellar joint to create a cast from which the joint contact area was measured. Measurements were performed at 3 angles of elbow flexion and in 3 different forearm positions. RESULTS: In the native elbow, contact areas were highest in supination. Elbow flexion had no significant effect on native and prosthetic joint contact areas. Contact areas were decreased for all types of arthroplasties compared with the native joint (from 11% to 53%). No significant contact area difference was found between the 3 designs. However, bipolar prostheses showed lateral subluxation in neutral forearm rotation, resulting in a significant decrease in the contact areas from pronation to the neutral position. CONCLUSIONS: All types of radial head prostheses tested showed a significant decrease in radiocapitellar contact area compared with the native joint. Bipolar designs led to subluxation of the radial head, further decreasing radiocapitellar contact.

Outcomes after revision total elbow arthroplasty: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Although revision arthroplasty surgery is a frequently used treatment for failed total elbow arthroplasty (TEA), published results are conflicting. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an overview of the outcomes of revision TEA surgery. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed in major databases to find articles relating to outcomes after revision of TEA. Two reviewers independently screened the articles for inclusion, and a third reviewer screened them before final inclusion. RESULTS: Twenty-one articles containing 532 cases were included. The mean age at revision was 61 years. The mean interval between primary and revision arthroplasty was 77 months, and the average follow-up period was 65 months. Different types of prostheses were included, with 69% of the revision prostheses having linked designs and 31% having unlinked designs. The visual analog scale score, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, Oxford Elbow Score, and range of motion improved significantly after revision surgery. Complications were reported in 232 of 532 cases (44%), leading to reoperations in 22%. After revision with linked prostheses, the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, range of flexion-extension, and pronation improved significantly more than with unlinked designs. CONCLUSION: Improved functional outcomes can be expected after revision TEA, but the complication rate remains high. Revision TEA should still be considered a salvage procedure for failed TEA. Linked designs for revision TEA result in better outcomes than unlinked designs in the midterm follow-up.

Radiocapitellar arthroplasty: a consecutive case series with 2 to 6 years' follow-up.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to analyze indications, outcomes, and complications in patients treated with radiocapitellar arthroplasty. METHODS: This prospective analysis of clinical and radiographic results included 16 elbows in 15 patients. RESULTS: This study included 4 men and 11 women (mean age, 51.9 years; age range, 32-65 years). The mean follow-up period was 3.4 years (range, 2-6 years). The indications were post-traumatic (n = 10) and primary radiohumeral osteoarthritis (n = 6). A mean of 2 surgical procedures (range, 0-4) had been performed before radiocapitellar arthroplasty. The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score significantly improved from 46 points to 85 points (P < .01). The arc of motion improved from 106° to 117° (P = .27). Radiographic ulnohumeral degeneration progressed in 40% of cases but was not symptomatic in any. Subsequent surgery was required in 5 elbows (31%). Revision of the radial head component was necessary in 4 patients (25%). In 3 patients this was a result of loosening of the stem. The radial component was subsequently removed because of persistent pain in 1. Radiographic loosening not requiring revision was found in 2 patients. CONCLUSION: The overall Mayo Elbow Performance Score was good to excellent after radiocapitellar arthroplasty. Both the revision and reoperation rates were high, and one should consider this before performing this procedure. Loosening of the radial head component was a problem. An improved fixation technique or an adaptation of the design is needed before this type of surgery can be recommended as a standard procedure.

Valgus instability of the elbow: acute and chronic form.

There has been an increase in thrower-specific elbow injuries in recent years. High valgus stresses during the late cocking and acceleration phases of throwing need to be compensated by the flexor pronator muscles as these can exceed the tensile strength of the medial collateral ligament complex. Prevention of injuries is the priority, with a focus on strengthening, reducing throwing frequency, decreasing force, and promoting a technique. The spectrum of thrower injuries ranges from a simple sprain to complete failure of the valgus stabilizing factors. The medial collateral ligament can stretch, leading to posteromedial impingement and radiocapitellar compression forces. This in turn can result in arthrosis and the formation of osteophytes. Ligament failure may eventually occur, making it impossible for the athlete to continue their throwing activities. The outcome of conservative treatment with strengthening, improvement of technique, and relative rest is often disappointing. Direct repair may no longer be possible in these acute-on-chronic injuries and a reconstruction with a tendon graft may be necessary.

Percutaneous, Transtrapezial Fixation without Bone Graft Leads to Consolidation in Selected Cases of Delayed Union of the Scaphoid Waist.

Purpose We evaluated clinical and radiographic outcome of percutaneous transtrapezial fixation of the scaphoid delayed union or nonunion using a headless bone screw without bone grafting. Methods Sixteen patients with delayed union or nonunion of the scaphoid were included in this retrospective study between 2006 and 2011. All patients had a delayed presentation of scaphoid fracture, and none of them was treated conservatively elsewhere. Patients with bone graft, sclerotic bone debridement, or displacement of the fragment at the nonunion site were excluded. A percutaneous transtrapezial fixation technique was used in all cases. Patients were reviewed until clinical and radiographic union was observed. At the final follow-up, DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) and PRWHE (Patient-Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation) outcome scores were completed. Results Radiographic union was obtained in 15 out of 16 patients (94%) at an average follow-up of 36 months (range: 12-98 months). No complications from the percutaneous technique were noted. The average DASH score was 6 (range: 0-39) and the average PRWHE score was 10 (range: 0-56). No statistical significant difference in range of motion and grip strength was found between the operated side and the contralateral side. Conclusion Percutaneous transtrapezial screw fixation for delayed or nonunion of selected scaphoid fractures without bone grafting is promising. At a mean of 4 months, 94% union was obtained with good functional results when there was no sclerosis, minimal osteolysis, and no displacement at the scaphoid nonunion site. Type of Study Therapeutic study. Level of Evidence IV.

Plate Osteosynthesis of Proximal Ulna Fractures-A Biomechanical Micromotion Analysis.

PURPOSE: Double plating has been promoted, in recent years, as an alternative treatment method for proximal ulna fractures. This study aimed to compare the biomechanical properties of double-plate osteosynthesis with posterior plate fixation using a novel investigational design utilizing a 3-dimensional camera system to analyze fracture micromotion. METHODS: Fourteen fresh-frozen specimens were available for this study. Mayo type IIA fractures of the olecranon were created and internal fixation was performed with either an angular stable posterior plate or angular stable double plates. Fracture micromotion was evaluated by means of digital image correlation with a 3-dimensional camera system before and after dynamic cyclic loading from 15° to 90° of elbow flexion with a pulling force of 25 N to 80 N. RESULTS: Micromotion of fragments was less pronounced in double-plate osteosynthesis when compared with single plates before and after cyclic loading. However, overall results were similar. Two of the single plates failed during cyclic loading but there were no failures in the double plates. CONCLUSIONS: This biomechanical analysis shows that single and double plating results in comparable stability of fixation. Although the double-plating technique tends to provide more stable fixation, relevant differences were not observed. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Double plating potentially represents an efficient option for fixation of proximal ulna fractures. It could decrease the risk of soft tissue complications owing to their low profile and the superior soft tissue coverage.

Intra-articular capacity of the elbow joint.

The intra-articular capacity of the elbow joint is reported to be 23 ± 4 ml on cadaveric elbows. During years, this value was the standard. The aim of this observational study was to reanalyze the volume of the elbow joint on live patients. Measurement of the intra-articular capacity and pressure of the elbow joint was performed on 30 patients (mean age: 43.8 years) undergoing elbow arthroscopy. Intra-articular capacity was recorded when the elbow moved to the maximum lose packed position and/or when there was a sudden drop in pressure, indicating a capsular rupture (maximum capacity). Indications for arthroscopy were loose bodies, osteoarthritis, synovitis, radial head resection, and lateral collateral ligament repair. Mean intra-articular capacity and pressure were 35.8 ml and 557.5 mm Hg, respectively. Mean maximal capacity was 40.5 ml. We conclude that the intra-articular capacity of the elbow joint is substantially greater than reported in previous studies. Clin. Anat. 30:795-798, 2017. © 2017Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Assessment and decision making in the unstable elbow: management of simple dislocations.

Simple elbow dislocations are usually treated conservatively. Radiographs are negative in simple dislocations. Results are generally good, although a small percentage of patients may develop chronic instability. Ligamentous repair can be indicated in high demand patients or if the elbow remains unstable following a closed reduction. Chronic instability is classified per their direction. Surgery is often indicated in the chronically unstable elbow.

Radiological and Clinical Evaluation of the Transosseous Cortical Button Technique in Distal Biceps Tendon Repair.

PURPOSE: One of the options to repair a ruptured distal biceps tendon to the radial tuberosity is by means of a transosseous cortical button. Although excellent functional outcomes have been reported, no studies have been performed to quantify the effect of the transosseous fixation technique on the radius. Our study evaluated the clinical outcome and radiological outcome of this technique. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the radiographic evolution of the bone tunnel in the radius. METHODS: Patients with an acute distal biceps tendon rupture treated with a transosseous cortical button were invited to take part in the study. Fourteen patients were included in the final analysis. All patients were evaluated both clinically and by computed tomography scanning of the proximal radius after a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Outcomes were recorded using the visual analog scale score for pain, the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores. Bone tunnel volume was measured with semiautomated computed tomography segmentation using image-processing software. RESULTS: There were no failures of fixation in the patient group examined. Elbow mobility, arm, and forearm circumference were symmetric for all patients. Average visual analog scale for pain was less than 2. Mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score and Mayo Elbow Performance Score were 2.3 and 97.6, respectively. Computed tomography images showed an average closure of the radial bony tunnel of 64% of the initial volume. CONCLUSIONS: Biceps tendon repair with cortical button fixation only shows partial tunnel closure. This could reduce the risk of potential complications due to osteolysis, such as radius fracture or hardware failure. Functional results were excellent and comparable to other fixation methods. The role of interference screws in transosseous cortical button techniques to strengthen the repair and to avoid osteolysis may therefore be questioned. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic IV.